Teachers play a crucial role in our community, but sadly, they often don’t get the appreciation they deserve.
It requires a unique individual to commit their life to teaching others, being a role model, offering guidance, and helping to mentor the younger generations.
We frequently hear stories about teachers who go the extra mile to support others, especially the kids they look after.
One example of a hero is Jonathan Oliver, a physical education teacher at WG Nunn Elementary in Valdosta, Georgia. He was honored for his thoughtful gesture towards a kindergartener during a basketball game he was coaching.
When one of his students asked for help, he was really glad to lend a hand.
When Kristen Paulk, one of the kindergarteners on Oliver’s basketball team, asked him to help her tie her hair back in a ponytail, the coach quickly jumped in to assist.
Oliver knelt down on a basketball to be at eye level with little Kristen. He looked really focused as he carefully tied her braids back so they wouldn’t fall into her face. What he didn’t know was that someone was filming the whole thing.
Actually, Kandice Anderson, a teacher at the elementary school, recorded the coach’s kind act and later shared it on YouTube, where it got a lot of love and support from people.
The viral video was titled: “When your job is more than just teaching!”
The video finally reached Good Morning America, and they got in touch with the 34-year-old father of three to set up an interview.
Oliver said on Good Morning America that he was really surprised by how much attention it got since everyone does it. He also mentioned that he didn’t know he was being recorded.
The teachers really want the students to feel comfortable and happy, like they’re at home. They do their best to show them love and support. For me, it was just a simple ponytail.
The thoughtful coach shared with the media that Kristen had requested his assistance in tying her hair into a ponytail during a basketball game. However, he admitted that his skills don’t go much further than that, even though he frequently helps style his daughter’s hair.
He joked, “I’m glad she wanted a ponytail. If she had asked for something else, I would have said, ‘You should really check with your mom about that.’”
Kristen’s mom, Miyah Cleckley, shared with the news that the video really moved her. She said, “I always feel confident that Kristen is well taken care of by him. I thought it was super adorable because her dad often does their hair. We have five daughters and one son, so when I’m busy working, he steps up and helps with their hair.”
This tale is just one of countless examples of teachers
